Cahill back as Australia take on Serbia

The return of two suspended players and the absence of two others could prove to be a deciding factor in Wednesday's World Cup Group D clash between Australia [ ] and Serbia.

Australia welcome back arguably their best player in Tim Cahill, who missed last week's 1-1 draw with Ghana after being sent off in the 4-0 defeat by Germany [ ] in their opening match.

Cahill is expected to tuck in just behind striker Brett Holman in a game they must win. If the Aussies find they need more firepower, coach Pim Verbeek might also be tempted to throw Josh Kennedy into the attack.

"All through the qualifiers that's how we played virtually - me up front with Timmy just behind me, and I think in every game either he scored or I scored," Kennedy said. "We have always worked quite well together and he's back now."

Serbia can call on central defender Aleksandar Lukovic, who was sent off in their opening 1-0 defeat by Ghana and suspended for the win over Germany by the same scoreline last Friday.

"It is good to have Lukovic back as he will add steel in defence," coach Radomir Antic said.